Discover the art of Nature and Culture
Two exhibitions go on show this week at Caloundra Regional Gallery featuring an exciting range of public programs.
Artist Deb Mostert, with a career spanning more than 35 years, invites audiences on an immersive storytelling journey as she presents a collection that challenges our relationship with the natural world.
About the exhibition
Nature and Culture - animal as object is the latest exhibition on show at Caloundra Regional Gallery from December 13 to February 2, intertwining art, science and the poignant narrative of our relationship with nature.
Ms Mostert said her work was about observation and storytelling.
"There are stories in all things, tales of loss and destruction but also of great hope and redemption,” Ms Mostert said.
Nature and Culture - animal as object combines early scientific taxonomy with contemporary artistic expression, creating a modern Wunderkammer - a cabinet of curiosity.
Deb Mostert’s work
Ms Mostert’s pieces reflect a journey through loss, restoration and the beauty of the natural world, inviting viewers to reflect on their own connections with nature.
Drawing upon her extensive research at the Queensland Museum, Ms Mostert delves into the objectification of animals through taxidermy and the mass-produced souvenir.
Her work provokes critical questions: What does it mean to possess an animal? and How does our fascination with collecting artifacts reflect on our respect for the living world?
About the artist
Ms Mostert’s artistic journey began with innocent childhood sketches and has evolved into a profound exploration of natural history and its representation.
Her weekly visits to the Queensland Museum over five years led her to document and draw endangered species, capturing the essence of creatures like the grey nurse shark, koala, and loggerhead turtle.
By juxtaposing taxidermy with playful pop culture references, she raises awareness about conservation and the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
Who will love it
Sunshine Coast Council Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said the launch event on Thursday, December 12 was an opportunity to meet the artist and gain insight into the thought-provoking themes explored in this unique body of work.
“This exhibition is perfect for art enthusiasts, nature lovers and anyone curious about the complexities of our relationship with the natural world,” Cr Law said.
“Visitors will be challenged to consider their role as collectors and the implications of commodifying nature through souvenirs.
About the gallery
“Caloundra Regional Gallery is a space for everyone to enjoy.
“Our gallery is a fully accessible space, free to enter and available to all.
“Each exhibition features public programs and new ways to engage in contemporary art, such as kids’ art trails, artist talks, workshops and kids’ activities.
“I highly recommend a visit to the gallery during the school holidays to experience this visual journey that promises to enlighten, inspire and provoke thought.”
Key dates and Public Programs
Launch Event: Thursday, December 12, 2024
Exhibition Dates: Friday, December 13, 2024 – Sunday, February 2, 2025
Location: Caloundra Regional Gallery, Sunshine Coast
December 13, 10.30am Artist talk: Deb Mostert
December 14, 9.30am-3.30pm Workshop: Everyday nature sketchbooks
January 10, 10-11.30am Kids activity: Come and draw animal objects with us
January 10, 1-4pm Kids activity: Create a diorama
Profiled in Gallery 3
A recent gift to the Sunshine Coast Art Collection is also on show at the gallery, with artworks that highlight artist Wendy McGrath-Lakeland’s multi-disciplinary practice of painting, photography, printmaking and site-specific installations.
Highlighting the Collection - Wendy McGrath-Lakeland features a collection of works by the artist and speaks to the experience of history and the embedded memory of landscape.
Wendy works from her studio in the Noosa Hinterland on Kabi Kabi country. Based on her own research, her works encompass various landscapes and subject matter, through site-specific temporary sculptures and installations, which are realised through commissions and artist residencies.
Visiting Caloundra Regional Gallery
Caloundra Regional Gallery is open from 10am, Tuesday to Sunday, and located at 22 Omrah Avenue, Caloundra.
Stay up to date with all the latest news, events and exhibitions by subscribing to the e-newsletter at gallery.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or following @caloundraregionalgallery on Facebook and Instagram.